Computer-based recording

[LesStrat]

What do you use to connect to your PC?

Currently, I'm connecting a POD XTL via USB, then using the headphones OUT of the POD for monitoring. Problem is I can't control the guitar volume in a meaningful way. If I turn it down, then the recording volume is too low. If I don't, it blows out my ears over the rest of the tracks.

How are you connecting?

 

[Virtual Kevorkian]

Re: Computer-based recording

I run my Focusrite Saffire Pro 26i/o via Firewire into my PC or MacBook. Main out's to a pair of Event TR8s, 2ndary out to a set of 2.1 Harmon/Kardon speakers (probably going to replace with a 2.1 Klipsh set). POD and Redeye (DI) via Line-ins on the front, AT3035/SM57's via the preamps on the back.

 

[Reload in 5]

Re: Computer-based recording

I run into the line in on my sound card and record with audacity. I run my monitors (read old sony 2.1 system) from the sound card out. I set my levels on my gear to get the right recording level. I boost or cut the previous tracks in audacity to match the level on the current track (leaving its level where it needs to be for the recording) then I can adjust all levels later from there.
Try plugging headphones into the PC instead of pod.

 

[ratherdashing]

Re: Computer-based recording

Les, you'd probably benefit greatly from a decent compact mixer and a dedicated outboard audio device. I had the same problems as you when I used the XT as the recording interface.

I have a Yamaha MG12/4 mixer that handles all ins and outs. I record using a MBox (original). The 2 ins on the MBox are fed by a bus on the mixer, and the outs go into a stereo channel on the mixer. I use the bus level to set the level going into the MBox, and the channel fader to control the output level.

The MBox has an input/playback blend knob, and if I set that to 100% playback and mute the tracks I'm recording in SONAR I can use the faders on the mixer to control instrument levels. The level in my ears can be different from the level going into the MBox, which is really nice when I want to record something at a hot level without blowing my eardrums.

Tascam makes some great small audio interfaces. For mixers, you can get a used Mackie 1202 for cheap, and it will do everything you want with no compromises in audio quality. Avoid Behringer unless you like static and hum.

 

[ratherdashing]

Re: Computer-based recording

Try plugging headphones into the PC instead of pod.

That won't work. The Pod is effectively working as his sound card for both in and out. If he plugs headphones into the computer, he won't hear anything.

 

[LesStrat]

Re: Computer-based recording

:werd:

Thanks, Matty. Could you elaborate a bit? If I understand correctly, you're using a regular mixer into the Mbox which is used as an analog->digital converter? Would it be easier to get a digital mixer?

Also, is it safe to assume that this would allow me to mic my amp and record that signal?

 

[tone4days]

Re: Computer-based recording

i use a line6 toneport ux2 that connects to the pc via usb and i run sonar/cakewalk home recording studio recording sw

 

[Virtual Kevorkian]

Re: Computer-based recording

:werd:

Thanks, Matty. Could you elaborate a bit? If I understand correctly, you're using a regular mixer into the Mbox which is used as an analog->digital converter? Would it be easier to get a digital mixer?

Also, is it safe to assume that this would allow me to mic my amp and record that signal?

I'd personally mix ITB and ditch the mixer idea... while it adds channels, it forces you to commit to a stereo mix of all the channels on the mixer before running it into the PC, and unless you've got a nice unit, the pres probably aren't much, if at all, better than the ones you'd have on the interface itself.

But yes - if you get an interface with built in pres, you just go mic -> interface -> PC.

 

[J Moose]

Re: Computer-based recording

Les, you'd probably benefit greatly from a decent compact mixer and a dedicated outboard audio device. I had the same problems as you when I used the XT as the recording interface.

Indeed.

The big room has a 32 I/O hi-def motu rig and a 72 input Soundcraft mixer...

For portable tracking situations I have a little Yomama mixer, think it's 8 channels... or 8 mono anyway and that's fed with subgroups from the audio interface. Usually "mix" and "dubs".

In either case all the signal routing for headphone cues & control room level is handled in the analog domain. Not only does it provide more control (the main reason) but it helps to avoid latency issues which can affect performance.

 

[DankStar]

Re: Computer-based recording

In the past when I went straight to the computer, I used an imic external soundcard, or just the computer's soundcard (when it's been good enough) [after coming out of a cheap arse mixer with an aux cord and an adaptor that has a male 1/8" end].

I don't really connect to it these days directly. I record into a fostex and then upload the tracks for editing & mixing. Can't get away from the ol' 4-track unit mentality I guess.

 

[ratherdashing]

Re: Computer-based recording

:werd:

Thanks, Matty. Could you elaborate a bit? If I understand correctly, you're using a regular mixer into the Mbox which is used as an analog->digital converter? Would it be easier to get a digital mixer?

Yeah, you could use a digital mixer and basically get both devices in one box. I don't have much experience with digital mixers personally, but I imagine they're pretty straightforward - basically a regular mixer with a USB or Firewire input and output in addition to everything else. That's all a mixer does really - moves sound from one or more inputs to one or more outputs. It's like an airport terminal for audio signals.

Also, is it safe to assume that this would allow me to mic my amp and record that signal?

Yes it would. You would plug the mic into a channel on the mixer with a mic preamp.

 

[LesStrat]

Re: Computer-based recording

:cool3: Thanks again for your assistance.

BTW, I've been tweaking the POD for the last few weeks. I also downloaded several patches from L6 that are working VERY well. I really like this tool.

 

[LesStrat]

Re: Computer-based recording

:saeek:

I just checked prices...starting at $400....:smack: